More often,
however,
sexual
assault
involves
psychological
coercion and
taking
advantage of
an
individual
who is under
duress or
incapacitated
and,
therefore,
incapable of
making a
decision on
his/her own
(including
under the
influence of
alcohol,
drugs and/or
prescription
medications).

Sexual assault is a
crime motivated by a
need to control,
humiliate, and
harm. Perpetrators
use sexual assault
as a weapon to hurt
and dominate others.
Rape is a form of
sexual assault.
Although stranger
rape does occur,
rapes are often
committed by people
victims know
(romantic partners,
acquaintances,
friends).

Rape or sexual
assault are
never the
victim’s fault — no
matter where or how
it happens.